₦airaland Forum

DELTA COVID-19 TASKFORCE ON BOUNDARY ENFORCEMENT PULLS DOWN IRON BARRICADE ERECTED ON THE NIGER-BRIDGE BY ANAMBRA GOVERNMENT.
BY Dr Ruth Nkeaka
(24-05-2020)
ASABA: Today, 24th of May 2020, Honorable Innocent Esewezie, the Oshimili South (Headbridge) Covid-19 Taskforce on Boundary Enforcement with his Team pulled down the Iron barricade erected on the Asaba-end of the Niger bridge by the Anambra State Government to ensure there is passage and movement of vehicles on essential duties only across the border.
You will recall that as part of measures to curtail and curb the spread of the global pandemic, COVID-19, the 36 State Governors agreed on restricted interstate movement of humans and vehicles but only allowing movement of persons on essential duties and vehicles conveying essential goods such as agricultural, medical and pharmaceutical products across borders.
The Delta State Government thereafter set up the State COVID-19 Taskforce on Boundary Enforcement to ensure unauthorized persons and goods do not find their way into the State and this has helped, to a very great extend to curb the spread of the Coronavirus within the State.
Sadly, only recently, the Anambra State Government took the movement restriction a step too far by totally restricting movement of even essentials across the Niger Bridge thereby causing a very heavy and agonizing build-up of traffic comprising of trailers and trucks stretching from the Head bridge all the way to Koka Junction and even beyond thus causing untold hardship on the citizens and also adding more structural stress to the already weakened Niger bridge. Moreso, erecting an iron barricade to achieve their aim.

The Anambra State Government has dismissed the alleged construction of a concrete slabs at the Niger Bridge Onitsha.

Disclosing this in a statement signed by the Personal Assistant to the Commissioner for Transport, Okoro Benedict, the state said what was barricaded was the two pedestrian walkways to ensure proper identification by security personnel.

The statement reads, “The attention of the Ministry of Transport, Anambra State has been drawn to a piece of misleading and mischievous information contained in the picture, currently trending on the social media and other online platforms.”

“The purveyors of the falsehood in their haste to misinform the public, and discredit the administration of Governor Willie Obiano, claim that the Anambra State Government has used concrete slabs as setbacks to prevent movement to and from the state.

“Prompted by this false information, the Honorable Commissioner for Transport, Dr. Christain C. Madubuko and his team visited Onitsha Bridgehead on Saturday May 23, 2020.


During that visit, it was discovered that the viral picture was not only the figment of the corrupt imagination of the creators, but also that vehicles bearing essential commodities as well as persons on special assignments are enjoying unfettered access.

“It is pertinent to note that the two pedestrian walkways at the bridgehead had to be barricaded to ensure the proper identification by the security personnel.


We therefore enjoin the general public to discountenance the pernicious falsehood and continue to observe necessary protocols aimed at containing the spread of the coronavirus.

“Fifth columnists should not be allowed to distract the State and Federal Governments as they work with experts to protect the lives of Nigerian



https://www.vanguardngr.com/2020/05/covid-19-we-did-not-erect-concrete-block-at-onitsha-bridge-head-anambra-govt/?fbclid=IwAR3e3lZP0O76WCuTQqpZZTu_jEc7cpf6MARSF7akPkbGKFQiViMI_FfRieE

Traditional Rulers, Pere S.P Luke, Kalanama VII, in this interview, speaks on the claim that alleged ceding of land to herdsmen in the state by traditional rulers is chiefly responsible for herdsmen killings in Delta.
The traditional ruler addresses other factors suspected to be contributing to the alarming state of the crisis. Herdsmen killings have been a source of tension in Delta of late with about 30 camps identified as places where herders launch attacks on communities in the state.
Traditional rulers in Delta State have been accused of ceding land to herdsmen. The act has been identified as a contributory factor to the incessant killing of natives by cattle rearers in the state. As one of the leaders of the state council of traditional rulers, what can you say about the allegation?
The traditional council in Delta State, led by the Chairman, Obi of Owa kingdom, Obi Emmanuel Efezomor, the first Vice-Chairman, Orodje of Okpe and myself met recently because of the increasing rate of clashes between herdsmen and the host communities, especially in Delta North Senatorial District.

Early this year, we also witnessed clashes between herdsmen and their host community in Ughelli North Local Government Area, specifically in Agadama town. No fewer than 10 people died in that incident. Recent clashes became a source of worry to the traditional rulers and we have seen that government is doing its best. The governor has convened two security meetings to put an end to the crisis. It appears all efforts have not yielded desired results.

As a result of that, at our meeting which was held last Thursday, we asked the Commissioner of Police to come and brief us on what is happening in Delta North and other parts of the state. In addition to the clashes between herdsmen and natives, particularly in Okpanam, kidnapping for ransom is also widespread there.
The Commissioner came and briefed us. Another issue discussed was the influx of almajirai into the state. Since his men are manning the borders, we were surprised that the borders became so porous to the extent that people can actually come into the state freely without being stopped by his men. The Police Commissioner in his response said from their preliminary findings, they discovered that most of the traditional rulers in Delta North where the crisis is alarming, gave out land under dispute to herdsmen. Sometimes they are sold completely to them or given to them in exchange for something.

He also told us that the vigilante groups set up by various committees to check the menace of kidnapping and herdsmen clashes with host communities have been successfully infiltrated by the herdsmen. The vigilante groups are actually members of the communities, but the Police Commissioner said as things are today, they have been infiltrated by Fulani herdsmen and are the ones giving out information to the herdsmen who terrorise these areas.
The criminal elements among the herdsmen are those said to be involved in criminal activities. Since the indigenes of the communities connive with herdsmen, it is easy for the herders to carry out successful operations in the troubled communities. These were the observations of the Police Commissioner. He, therefore, called for concerted efforts by traditional rulers to rejig the security apparatus of the various communities.

Since the vigilante groups have been infiltrated by the herdsmen, there is need to look inwards to separate the bad ones from the good ones. He said to a large extent, doing so would solve the problem. He went further to say that most of the kidnappings in Delta North were being made possible by some criminal natives who connive with Fulani herdsmen. They give information to the herdsmen.

What was the resolution at the meeting?

We resolved that the vigilante groups who have the responsibility of providing community policing actually work with the herdsmen. That is why there are clashes. The Commissioner of Police supported his findings by saying that there are no disturbances by herdsmen in Asaba, but from Okpanam to Agbor is the theatre of the crisis.

The particular areas are Okpanam, Issele-Azagba, Ubulu Okiti, Onicha- Ugbo, Azagba- Ogwash, and Ubulu-Uku among others. The herdsmen have become emboldened since they gave out some money to reside in those places.
They feel that nobody can drive their activities, especially the destruction of farmlands since they paid money. When we were growing up, herdsmen who visited our areas were not violent like the ones we have in our communities today. From time immemorial, Fulani herdsmen rear cattle in our areas but the criminal elements among them have bastardized the trade to the extent that one becomes apprehensive when he sees herdsmen. The Police Commissioner told us that we should rejig the vigilante groups in our communities. He said doing that would reduce the frequent clashes between herdsmen and natives.

Since the Commissioner of Police identified the ceding of land to herdsmen as a major contributor to the crisis, have you people identified the traditional rulers involved and how are you handling the matter?

The chairman of the state traditional council is also the chairman of Delta North traditional rulers’ council. When the police made the resolution and since it bothers mainly on Delta North, the house resolved that our chairman who doubles as chairman of Delta North traditional council should convene an in-house meeting of his council.

The revelations by the police have become sources of worry to all the traditional rulers in the state. Even though he said traditional rulers in Delta North are the ones involved, the allegation affects all traditional rulers in the state. One would not shy away from the fact that some traditional rulers, as a result of some reasons, give out land to herdsmen. Some do not give the land out wholesomely. Sometimes, the herdsmen come to my area which is riverine and they leave when the water starts rising.

When they come, they tell us that they would be around for three months after which they would leave. When they come with proposals that they are giving out some things to the community, some members of the given community may suggest that the money should be accepted, but doing so is dangerous. If you collect money as a traditional ruler and give out land to herdsmen, the aftermath of that action would hurt the people of the community. Sometimes, the herdsmen come with juicy offers which they make to some traditional rulers. They sometimes pledge to give three cows at the end of the season to a traditional ruler. Sometimes they come with money. There are some among us who can actually fall into such a temptation and give them land. When such a mistake is made, they build their huts in the bush or forest after which they acquire more knowledge about the terrain more than the natives. Having established themselves in the forest, they become emboldened.

We have advised traditional rulers from Delta North to stop them from building huts in the forests. They were also asked to stop farmers from building huts on their farms because some of them stay back and connive with Fulani herdsmen at night. They should stop sleeping in the farms so that vigilante groups would know those in the forest and how to control them. But if many people sleep in the farm, it is difficult to identify criminal elements among herdsmen. Some traditional rulers give out land to herdsmen in exchange for material things. After the meeting, some of my friends from Delta North called me to complain about their Obis, kings.

They asked me to speak to their kings, adding that the Police Commissioner’s revelation was true. They told me that the Commissioner’s claim had justified their opposition to ceding of land to herdsmen by their kings. They even said the kings always claim they are giving lands to attract development to their kingdoms. I have equally called about two traditional rulers in Delta North to convey the feelings of their people about how they give out land. I advised them to carry out an introspection to identify areas they have not done well and where to make amends. I told them to call their people and reassure them that after this season the herdsmen wouldn’t return.

In this circumstance, are you people considering any disciplinary action against any traditional ruler, whose action is found to be promoting herdsmen crisis in the state?
We have rules guiding our activities in the state. There are rules we set for ourselves and the regulations were approved by the state government. In this case, we didn’t envisage this particular problem when drafting the rules. We may have to invoke the doctrine of necessity if necessary. In our next meeting we would do an appraisal.

In Delta South, the Isoko have issues with herdsmen but it is not as alarming as what is happening in Delta North and Delta Central.
The Ijaw-speaking areas are riverine areas and do not have such a problem. The herdsmen come with their cows but not in large numbers. Hopefully, in our next council meeting which would hold in June, we would address the issue. If after extensive deliberation, if there is need to impose some sanctions, we would do so because the statement from the Police Commissioner rubs off on all the traditional rulers in Delta. We would collate our findings from the three senatorial districts and set up a committee to address the issue.


To address the problem, the state government has concluded plans for an internal security outfit. How are you people going to work with government in that direction?
I have to commend the governor for the laudable idea. Security is every man’s business. As traditional rulers, our responsibility is to complement the effort of government. The outfit, Operation Delta Hawk, to a large extent, would solve many security challenges in the state. We know the proactive nature of our governor. He is a man who is not known for doing things outside the law. We would be providing the right information to the security outfit because we know our domains very well. Our people would be sensitised to provide information at any moment they notice any suspicious persons in our communities. Those residing in the communities know the criminals in their areas and would provide the right information. But when someone from Delta South is taken to work in Delta North, it would be long before he understudies the environment and gathers proper information. Therefore, those with knowledge of the environment where they would work should be in the security outfit.
Apart from reasons adduced by the Police Commissioner, from your experience, why did Delta become one of the flashpoints of herdsmen disturbances?
It is a puzzle at the moment. I said earlier that while growing up, Fulani herdsmen in our communities were friendly, peaceful and not violent. During one of the security meetings when Ikechukwu Aduba was the state Police Commissioner, the movement of cattle rearers was discussed. We realised that there was space then for them to graze then, but there is development in many communities now. Even the number of cattle has even increased because there are some Deltans who also have cows in the state. At some point cattle ranching was discussed so that the cattle would be confined to ranches. The implication of what the Police Commissioner said about traditional rulers is that if we stop giving land to the herdsmen, the clashes would occur less. It is a source of worry because we read about the incidents daily and feel embarrassed. As traditional rulers we would work among ourselves and send a memo to the governor on whatever findings we make.
The police have been accused of being complacent in the matter, thereby bringing the situation to a crisis point…
A few weeks ago, Vanguard published a report that revealed that some police stations do not have guns. It was also reported that a police station in Aboh area was sacked by rampaging hoodlums, who carted away guns. When the Police Commissioner’s attention was drawn to it, he said nobody had drawn his attention to it. When people accuse the police of being complacent, they should ask if the police have the necessary arms for crime-fighting.
Read more on www.vanguardngr.com
From the reports we got, the arms and ammunition used by these criminals are more sophisticated than what the police use. The police commissioner even told us the inadequacies they have. He said many policemen have retired and many have been killed in the line of duty. He added that the number of persons retiring and those being recruited is not commensurate.
He even said if the new recruitment had not been done, the force would have had only privates because they were left with corporals and sergeants at the lower level before the recruitment. More policemen should be recruited. They should also be provided with up-to-date equipment. You don’t expect them to confront people with superior firepower without quality weapons. People should realise that a policeman is not recruited to die but to defend the people. In doing defending the people, he should have the right equipment to fight.
But some have accused the governor of not nipping the crisis in the bud…
It is wrong to blame Governor Okowa, who is known to be proactive in his ways. The governor is doing what he was elected to do, but we have a dysfunctional system where the federal government always wants to control the affairs of states. That is not how things are done in a federal system. There is Operation Delta Safe, Highway Patrol and Rapid Response Squad. These outfits have the responsibility of providing security. However, when you have a situation whereby the federal government regulates what governors do, you have to abide by the law to avoid confrontation with the federal authorities. It is unfortunate that of all the killings nobody has been brought to book.






https://www.vanguardngr.com/2020/05/how-herders-use-cows-money-to-entice-traditional-rulers-pere-luke/

Gov Ayade with mix of sadness and suprise says cross riveriens still lives in hut and mud houses



He said it was better that his brain was taxed than for poor and underprivileged people in his state to be taxed.

Ayade noted with a mix of sadness and surprise that some of his state Indigenes still lived in huts and mud houses. He said if it was possible he wished God would take his wealth and give it to the poor residents in Cross Rivers.


“I never knew that five years as governor, there would still be people living in thatched houses in Cross River. I almost cried because I knew how prepared I was but it didn’t end the way I dreamt for the state. I wish God would intervene because I really wish I could help. It’s very painful.” the Governor said."


I charge you that this responsibility comes with its own troubles, you have a choice to do that which is good and the selection of this team is based on your history, it’s based on your profile,” he said further.

“The understanding of your closeness to God and that you will do that which is fair to all manners of people equally and fairly.

We charge you to ensure that the poor masses of Cross River State and the small business owners do not come under the harsh hands of the desperate search for money by tax consultants.

https://www.herald.ng/cross-rivers-ben-ayade-exempts-poor-residents-from-paying-tax/?fbclid=IwAR34rQ10lf_5U5aiAQySv-zDbdlGnGoDUK3zLGGBocmTvhnyKcrdYbpX5FQ

Emeka Offor donates 48.5 million naira worth of Hospital Bed sets to ABUTH Zaria
The Ahmadu Bello University Teaching Hospital Zaria on Wednesday 20th May 2020 received 100 hospital bed sets worth 48.5 million naira from Sir Emeka Offor Foundation for its Covid-19 isolation center. Receiving the items on behalf of the hospital, the Chief Medical Director (CMD) of the hospital Prof. Ahmed Hamidu Umdagas thanked the Foundation for their kind gesture and promised that the items will not only be put to good use but will serve the community even beyond covid-19 era.
Sir Emeka Offor who was represented at the ceremony by AIG Chris Ezike Rtd, the Chief of Staff to Sir Emeka Offor gave a brief history of the Foundation and stated that the Foundation’s investment in Heath sector is to augment government efforts which actually is one of the tripods the Foundation stands on. The other areas being Education and Empowerment which equally receive as much attention as Health. He informed the audience that in the last nine years, the Foundation has distributed books and other educational materials to Universities, Polytechnics, Colleges of education, Primary and Secondary Schools across Nigeria and 18 other African countries worth over $30 million. He also highlighted the Foundation’s recent donation in support of government efforts in the fight against covid-19 pandemic. SEOF has distributed fourteen 40 feet containers of highly needed hospital equipment and materials to designated hospitals and health institutions across Nigeria including the military and the police. He informed the CMD of the hospital that 4 containers of medicines and supplies have already been procured and shipped by the Foundation for distribution to selected hospitals and health institutions in Nigeria, ABUTH being one of them.
The Permanent Secretary Kaduna State Ministry of Health Alh. Shuaibu Muhammed who represented Kaduna State Government conveyed the state government appreciation of the donation noting that the coming onboard of the ABUTH isolation center is a welcomed development to the government. He used the opportunity to reiterate the need for the enforcement and observation of social distancing and other Covid-19 protocols especially among Health workers. He enjoined health workers not to lose their guard while treating others as 19 health workers have tested positive for Covid-19 in the state, 7 of them are health workers in ABUTH.
In his own remarks, the Vice Chancellor of Ahmadu Bello University Zaria Prof. Kabir Bala who was the Special Guest of honor thanked Sir Dr. Emeka Offor and his Foundation for coming to their rescue with the donation. He also appreciated the Foundation for the books and education materials that have been donated to his University in the past calling on other wealthy Nigerians to see investment in health and education as a collective responsibility. He also stated that the manufacturing of hand sanitizers, face masks and detergents now take place in the University to meet the increasing demands for these items.
The highlight of the event was the commissioning and inspection of the isolation center by the Special Guest of Honor, Prof. Bala accompanied by other dignitaries

We have all watched with deep concern the conflict that has engulfed our beloved community, Idumuje-Ugboko, Aniocha North Local Government Area, Delta State for the past three years. For the sake of posterity, I feel obliged to share my perspectives on the happenings and measures I have taken to make best efforts to resolve the conflict:

1 I am in full support of the quest by my brother and friend, Hon. Ned Nwoko, to build a University in Idumuje-Ugboko. I have always supported this project since he first mooted the idea to me. A University in Idumuje-Ugboko could easily attract four thousand students. If each student is spending an average of 20,000 naira per month or 240,000 naira per annum, Idumuje-Ugboko and indeed the neighboring towns, could see an injection of more than 960 million naira every year into their local economy. This shall have a multiplier effect on rent, food, transportation and all facets of the economy. I am excited about it and I believe the Idumuje-Ugboko community is happy to have the University in their domain. For good measure, he named one of the colleges in the proposed University after me.

I am fully in support of our King, the Obi of Idumuje-Ugboko, His Royal Highness Obi Chukwunomso Nwoko getting his Staff of Office. The tradition in Idumuje-Ugboko is that the first son of the King ascends the throne when his father joins his ancestors. In all the fifty plus years that I have lived prior to the passing of the late King, I have always known that HRH Obi Chukwunomso Nwoko shall take over as King when his father passes on. The immediate past King, HRH Obi Albert Nwoko joined his ancestors on the 9th of February 2017. On the same day, HRH Obi Chukwunomso Nwoko ascended the throne of his fathers. Members of our community called to condole with him on the passing of his father and congratulated him on ascending the throne. He has been in the Palace since that date. The throne is not in contention. The entire community of Idumuje-Ugboko know who their King is and where he is – firmly in the Palace. The issue at stake is when he shall receive his Staff of Office and NOT who shall be the King.

2 I believe both interests can and should co-exist. Hon. Ned Nwoko should build his University and HRH Obi Chukwunomso Nwoko should get his Staff of Office. Advocating for the King to receive his Staff of Office does not mean opposition to the construction of the University and vice-versa, which is what the generally misconstrued narrative suggests


3 Our immediate past King, HRH Obi Albert Nwoko joined his ancestors on the 9th of February 2017. His first son, HRH Obi Chukwunonso Nwoko promptly ascended the throne and we looked forward to the receipt of his Staff of Office and Idumuje-Ugboko celebrating the coronation of a new King. However, word quickly spread that Hon. Ned Nwoko had some challenges with the new King which may pose a barrier to the receipt of the Staff of Office. We thought it was something that would quickly blow over.

4 The social burial ceremony of the immediate past King was held at the Palace on Saturday, the 13th of May 2017. I attended the event to pay my respects to the departed King. Immediately after the event I went to pay homage to the new King. He informed me that there was a petition against him alleging that he killed his own father who died at a very ripe old age of 91 years. The Police was inviting him to come over for questioning. I thought this was preposterous and that the matter at hand was taking a dangerous turn and needed the intervention of well-meaning indigenes of Idumuje-Ugboko. As I stepped out of the presence of the King, I promptly put a call to Hon. Ned Nwoko to arrange a meeting. I thought he was in the village, but he said he was in Abuja. Instead of flying back to Lagos the next day, Sunday 14th May 2017, I flew to Abuja to have a meeting with him.

5 I met with Hon. Ned Nwoko in his house in Abuja on Monday 15th May 2017. This meeting lasted four hours. In addition to Hon. Ned Nwoko and I, Mr Greg Chiazor, an indigene of Idumuje-Unor and a cousin to Ned, Mr Chris Udomi, from Onicha-Ugbo and Hon. Nwoko’s Principal Secretary who took minutes of the meeting, were in attendance

I told Hon. Ned Nwoko that he is a very important and prominent son of Idumuje-Ugboko. I also emphasized the fact that the King, HRH Obi Chukwuomso Nwoko is his first cousin. I stressed the importance of allowing peace reign. He thanked me for calling the meeting as he believed I was in the best position to resolve this conflict. He listed his challenges with HRH Obi Chukwuomso Nwoko, stating that he needed 100 hectares of land to build a University and the King was neither supporting him to get the land, nor acknowledging his ownership as he alleged that the land needed to build the University had been allocated to him already by the immediate past King, HRH Obi Albert Nwoko. The disagreement therefore stemmed from the fact that Hon. Ned Nwoko did not have the requisite support of the new King, HRH Chukwunomso Nwoko, to keep his desired parcel of land.

Hon. Ned Nwoko acknowledged the fact that HRH Obi Chukwunomso Nwoko is indeed the rightful person to take over as the new King.

His condition for peace to reign was straightforward – the King, HRH Obi Chukwunomso Nwoko, should acknowledge his ownership of the 100 hectares of land so he can build his University and he, Hon. Ned Nwoko, shall give his support in the King’s quest to receive his Staff of Office.

I told Hon. Ned Nwoko that HRH Obi Chukwunomso Nwoko is NOT against him building a University nor getting 100 hectares of land. I relayed to him the feedback I received from the HRH Obi Chukwunomso Nwoko which was that he is dealing with an issue of trust deficit. During our engagement, HRH Obi Chukwunomso Nwoko alleged that Hon. Ned Nwoko approached the past King in 1999/2000 with a request for thirty-three (33) hectares of land to build a Cattle Ranch and Dairy Farm. The late king excitedly allocated the 33 hectares of land to Hon. Ned Nwoko for free, to use for industrialization. HRH Obi Chukwunomso Nwoko then alleged that Hon. Ned Nwoko took the land and built his personal house on it. Seventeen years afterwards, no cattle ranch nor dairy farm has been built on the land. Therefore, his request for an additional 100 hectares of land to build a University was received with skepticism. The King then said that Hon. Ned Nwoko should start building his University on the 33 hectares of land he already possesses which remained largely unutilized; promising that he would be open to dialogue for the allocation of additional land, only if he sees considerable progress.

Hon. Ned Nwoko declined, stating that he requires the 100 hectares of land as this is a pre-condition to get National University Commission approval. This was understandable. Regardless of these differences, I impressed it upon Hon. Ned Nwoko that we want peace in the community. I made the following proposals



Read more at


https://www.vanguardngr.com/2020/05/the-quest-for-peace-in-idumuje-ugboko-my-perspectives/?fbclid=IwAR22kI95DnDX6L-yZMju07RaNounziluHyjQZ6YepcnOrGS3TZ--CnDbSsE

Operatives of the Ogun State Command of the Nigeria Police in collaboration with officers of the So-Safe Corps have arrested a 40-year-old herbalist, Michael Itomu and three others for allegedly possessing human hand in Idiroko, Ipokia local government area of the state

The command image maker, DSP Abimbola Oyeyemi made the disclosure in a statement he issued and made available to newsmen in Abeokuta.



Other suspects arrested with Itomu according to Oyeyemi included Mathew Idosu, John Feyisetan and Samuel Adegbola

Oyeyemi said, “the suspects were arrested following information received by policemen attached to Idiroko division that the four men had been in contact with the herbalist for money rituals, positing that the herbalist asked them to provide a fresh human hand for that purpose”.

“The information revealed further that the suspects had contacted somebody in Abeokuta who had promised to get the human hand for them for a price of one million nairas”.

“Upon the information, the DPO Idiroko Division, CSP Opebiyi Sunday detailed his detectives in collaboration with men of the So-Safe Corps to ambush the suspects as a result of which three of them were apprehended at Owode Yewa and their arrest led to the arrest of the herbalist in the early hour of Tuesday 19th of May 2020”.

Oyeyemi added that ” preliminary investigation revealed that it was Mathew Idosu who contacted his family friend in Abeokuta who provided the hand alongside two others who are now at large”.



“On delivering the hand, they demanded the agreed one million nairas but the money was not readily available, this led to a serious scuffle between them and they angrily took away the duo of Samuel Adegbola and John Feyisetan to a bush where they thoroughly beat them before they were released on 17th of May 2020”.

“It was the action of those who supplied the hand that made the whole secret to being leaked which eventually led to their arrest”.

“The fresh human hand has been taken to Idiroko general hospital for preservation”.

Meanwhile, the commissioner of police CP Kenneth Ebrimson has ordered the case to be transferred to state criminal investigation and intelligence department for further investigation. He equally directed that the other members of the syndicate who provided the hand should be hunted for and brought to justice.


https://www.vanguardngr.com/2020/05/herbalist-3-others-in-police-net-for-possessing-human-hand-in-ogun/

Missing Man Murdered by Brother in Auchi, Edo State
Usman Abdul Lateef a native of Akpekpe who has been missing since Wednesday (13th of May) has been found dead and buried in a bush by his cousin.
The deceased was said to have left home on Wednesday with his cousin simply identified as Koma to the Guarantee Trust Bank’s Automated Teller Machine for a transaction but never returned.
Koma was however taken in by the police for investigation as he was the last person Lateef interacted with on the day he went missing. He was however released after questioning.
While search by the Azomode Age Grade members and investigation by the Police of the Auchi Divisional Headquarters was ongoing, the family of the deceased had contacted the Auchi GTBank branch and notified his account manager about the development.
Noticing an activity on the account, the bank promptly notified the family of an attempt of a withdrawal on Lateef’s account on Tuesday, May 19th while the transaction was ongoing at GTB Auchi.
This led to the recapture of Koma who confessed to have killed his cousin over a 2million Naira Land deal and buried him in a bush in Igarra road with the intent to withdraw the cash since he already had the ATM card and pin of Lateef.
The body has been recovered by a joint effort of the Police and Auchi Vigilante Squad led by Koma and has been buried at 7:10pm according to Islamic rites while further enquiry on the matter continues.

Coronavirus in America VS Coronavirus in Nigeria

SENATOR IFEANYI UBAH CONGRATULATES ACCUNALYSIS DIAGNOSTIC CENTER, NNEWI ON ACCREDITATION AS FIRST COVID-19 TESTING CENTER IN ANAMBRA
...ALSO THANKS DG OF NCDC AND ANAMBRA STATE GOVERNMENT.
I am pleased to congratulate the Management and Staff of Accunalysis Diagnostic Center, Nnewi on their official accreditation by NCDC as the first Covid-19 testing lab in Anambra.
The Centre which has been certified to analyze samples of suspected patients of Corona Virus by the Nigeria Centre for Diseases Control (NCDC) is domiciled in my hometown; Nnewi and my Senatorial district, Anambra South. With the Testing Centre now situated in Anambra, Anambrarians will no longer bear the huge cost of logistics and other inconveniences taking COVID-19 samples to other states for tests.
To the glory of God, Anambra state is now fully equipped to aggressively tackle the virus holistically as well as to increase our testing capacity. The Accunalysis Diagnostic Center which is owned by my constituent and member of the Anambra Progressives; Chief Callistus Ifenna Okeke has excellent world class facilities for the testing of COVID-19 samples which can be deployed for detection of the virus and even beyond.
I am impressed with the quality of facilities on ground, the human capital and the willingness of the Anambra Progressives to go an extra mile in ensuring that the state does not become a haven for the COVID-19 pandemic.
I also want to wholeheartedly acknowledge the DG of the Nigeria Center for Disease Control(NCDC); Dr. Chikwe Ihekweazu and the Governor of Anambra State; His Excellency, Chief Willie Obiano as well as the relentless intervention of my Senatorial office towards achieving this feat which will stand as a reference point for generations to come.
Conclusively, let us Keep practicing safety measures in our respective communities; let us remain disciplined in obeying the Authorities and keep trusting in God. In the end, we shall overcome!
Senator (Dr.) Ifeanyi Ubah
Anambra South Senatorial District

Lalasticlala

Obi of Onitsha, His Royal majesty Nnaemeka Alfred Ugochukwu Achebe(Agbogidi) CFR, mni is 79 years old today. He's the 21st Obi of Onitsha dynasty.

Eze Ọnicha ebo ite naanị
Eze of Onitsha kingdom
Long live your Majesty.


Onitsha Ado N'Idu

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FLASHBACK: How Newly Appointed Buhari’s Chief Of Staff, Gambari, Supported Killing of Saro-Wiwa, Others By Abacha Regime, Annulment Of June 12, 1993 Election




Though he was officially announced as the new Chief of Staff to President Muhammadu Buhari on Wednesday, news of his filling the role left behind by late Abba Kyari had been everywhere since Tuesday.

Despite an attempt to sell him as a widely experienced diplomat, Gambari has lent his career to assisting Nigerian dictators to oppress citizens through undemocratic acts, judicial murders and large scale corruption.

A few of publicly documented actions directed against democratic progress and abuse of human rights in Nigeria are noteworthy.

In 1995 for instance, he openly backed the killing of Ogoni environmentalist, Ken Saro-Wiwa, and eight other activists during the ruthless General Sani Abacha military regime.


Gambari had informed the United Nations that the killing of Saro-Wiwa was legal as it was done in line with the law and constitution of Nigeria.

The UN General Assembly had condemned the arbitrary execution of Saro-Wiwa after a flawed judicial process, emphasising that everyone charged with a penal offence had the right to be presumed innocent until proven guilty according to the law in a public trial with all guarantees necessary for defence.

But Gambari accused the UN General Assembly of dancing to the tune of some individuals trying to challenge the sovereignty of Nigeria.





He labelled Saro-Wiwa a “common criminal”, who had engaged in the murder of some Ogoni elders.

He said that by the draft resolution, the sovereign right of a member state to enact a law was being challenged and the right to use capital punishment for serious offences was being questioned.

The Ilorin, Kwara State-born professor was once quoted as saying, “Nigerians don’t need democracy because democracy is not food. It is not their priority now.”

As more pressure mounted on the Abacha regime from all corners of the world, Gambari became more notorious and ruthless in defending and deflecting attacks against the Abacha dictatorship.

As a result of his actions, he was forced to resign as head of a committee organising peace talks between the Nigerian Government and militants in the oil-producing Niger Delta.

Some Niger Delta leaders including MEND rejected Gambari’s involvement in the proposed summit.

“My appointment has attracted what appears to be a well orchestrated and relentless opposition from some quarters, institutions, groups and individuals.

“As a result, my name has become the issue in place of the attempt at finding a just and lasting solution to the crisis in the Niger Delta.

"In light of this, I wish to be excused as the chairman of the steering committee of the summit," Gambari said in his resignation letter to former President, Umaru Yar’Adua.

Apart from his role in the killing of Saro-Wiwa and the eight Ogoni indigenes, President Buhari's new Chief of Staff is also known to have openly supported the annulment of June 12, 1993 election won by business tycoon, Moshood Kashimawo Olawale Abiola.

The military regime of Ibrahim Badamasi Babangida cancelled the outcome of that election overwhelming won by Abiola while the Abacha government arrested and threw him in jail where he remained until he died on July 7, 1998.


http://saharareporters.com/2020/05/13/flashback-how-newly-appointed-buhari%E2%80%99s-chief-staff-gambari-supported-killing-saro-wiwa?fbclid=IwAR2h5vZH8ICt1zj7lMgvYd9RUBZ6ylsqRq96Wa7XJneoAKWGzO5mN2pcZvE

PRESIDENT BUHARI MOURNS IGWE UMENYIORA OF OGBUNIKE
President Muhammadu Buhari has received with profound sadness the news of the passing of Igwe John Ositadimma Umenyiora, Ezedioramma 1 of Ogbunike and Okpala Iguedo.
On behalf of the Federal Government, the President extends heartfelt commiserations to Governor Willie Obiano of Anambra State, the Ogbunike community in Oyi Local Government Area of Anambra State and the Umenyiora family over the transition of the monarch, who was a symbol of humanitarianism, progressiveness and visionary leadership.
President Buhari avers that His Majesty, throughout his 44 years on the throne, demonstrated his deep affection and love for the betterment of his subjects, working tirelessly to improve the well-being of his people through education, commerce, economic empowerment and development.
The President recalls with nostalgia that when he first sought to be elected President of Nigeria in 2003, a worthy son of Ogbunike, Dr Chuba Okadigbo of blessed memory, was his running mate, and just like the late Igwe, both men possessed great leadership qualities.
President Buhari encourages the Ogbunike community, town of the famous cave in South East, Nigeria, to continue to honour Igwe Umenyiora's legacy of commitment to peaceful co-existence, prosperity and harmony.
As the community prepares for the last Ofala of the highly revered ruler who proudly showcased the rich Igbo culture, President Buhari prays for the peaceful repose of the soul of Okpala Iguedo, as well as the selection of a worthy successor, who will build on the achievements of the first Igwe of Ogbunike.
Femi Adesina
Special Adviser to the President
(Media & Publicity)

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More... https://www.femiadesina.com/president-buhari-mourns-igwe-umenyiora-of-ogbunike/

Federal government withdraws all the security agents attached to river state covid 19 taskforce, While inspector general of police orders release of all those locked in police cell for covid 19 violation.


Details shortly

Supreme Court dismisses all appeals by Obinna Uzoh and Chris Uba challenging the election of Sen Ifeanyi Ubah Ubah as Senator representing Anambra South Senatorial District.

GOVERNOR OBIANO VISITS BRIDGE HEAD ONISTHA EXPRESSES DISSATISFACTION AT COMPLIANCE
Governor Willie Obiano has expressed dissatisfaction at the low level of compliance at Anambra Bridgehead boundary, Onitsha.
Governor Obiano made the expression when he paid a surprise visit to the bridge.
On arrival, there was a long queue of human and vehicular movement, most people, without face masks and unmindful of the social distance protocol.
The Governor who was visibly angry, directed the Police Commissioner to block the two ends, to reduce human and vehicular traffic.
The State Police Commissioner, Mr John Abang, Commissioner for Transport, Dr Christian Madubuko, and other members of the COVID-19 Committee, were also present.
Recall that during his last broadcast, Governor Obiano announced a shutdown of all boundaries in the State, with exception of essential service providers.
Credit: Abs

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They kidnapped Mr B from Owerri to Rivers state yesterday. He is so lucky to be rescued. The guys invited him for a business and then kidnapped him for money.

They told him they were looking for a white man to play a role in their new movie. He drove from Owerri to meet his kidnappers in Rivers state.
He's been living in Nigeria for over 30 years.

His kidnappers follows him on Facebook and Instagram - they were his fans too. The only one left to watch over him is the one arrested when police came to rescued him

https://m.facebook.com/story.php?story_fbid=570792220513728&id=295645544695065

Breaking: just happened at jattu junction Auchi Edo state. 40ft container conveying Hausa/Fulani from northern part to South was intercepted by NPF/some concern youth of Etsako west LGA the government steep up to protect our boundaries from kogi


https://m.facebook.com/story.php?story_fbid=10216628011160708&id=1472850942&anchor_composer=false


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Edo State Government on Wednesday ordered the return of 108 travellers from the North intercepted at Irrua on Benin-Auchi road and Benin City by the state police command.

Special Adviser to Governor Godwin Obaseki on Media and Communication Strategy, Crusoe Osagie, who confirmed the incident, said three of the travellers tested positive for COVID-19.

The state Police Public Relations Officer, Mr Chidi Nwabuzor, also confirmed the interception of the 84 others at Irrua by the police, adding that the state government had ordered that they be escorted out of the state to the south-West where they said they were going to.

“Yes it is true a trailer load of human beings from Kaduna coming straight to Edo State were intercepted at Benin-Auchi expressway around Irrua. The operatives intercepted the vehicle and took them to Irrua Police Station.

When they were counted, there were 84 human beings including the driver and when they were interrogated they said they were coming from the North, Kaduna State to be precise. They were taken to Irrua Specialist Teaching Hospital for proper medical check and that has been done. The state government order is that security agents should escort them away to where they said they were going to, and that is the West, either Ogun State or Lagos.




So right now they are escorting them away from Edo state because they were going to the West. That is their defense now our duty now is to escort them away from Edo State,” said Nwabuzor.

Addressing journalists in Benin City, the state capital, the Commissioner for Health, Dr Patrick Okundia, said 26 travellers in a truck were stopped at AGIP Junction along Sapele Road and moved to the Stella Obasanjo Hospital for screening and testing to ascertain their COVID-19 status before they were let off to continue their journey.

https://punchng.com/edo-returns-108-northern-travellers-as-three-test-positive/?fbclid=IwAR22srzIFHHODq0OkOtG39a8nO2nIxoMduGOqmVBQZLqBwbPrcsWCEj-gK4



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Explosion averted as petrol Tanker spills content on Niger Bridge.

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Aloysius Ikegwuonu, aka "Bishop Ozubulu" has donated palliatives worth millions of Naira to his Ozubulu community to help cushion the effect of the Coronavirus pandemic.

A trailer loaded with cow and about forty people coming from Zamfara State was intercepted at the Berger end of Lagos-Ibadan expressway on Monday.

The Lagos State security personnel has however ordered the return of the trailer truck from the state.

Watch video here

https://www.vanguardngr.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/05/Trailer.mp4

Source: https://www.vanguardngr.com/2020/05/video-photos-about-40-people-from-zamfara-hidden-amid-cows-arrested-in-lagos/?fbclid=IwAR2MDvniQxvDx8_Ru13C6gKq0YUnvPWYVnmU3seRJk5K3YqJF_bmBjlgDUY

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Come and preside